Aden
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The UK Foreign Office currently advises against travel to all or parts of Yemen. This guide is for a safer time. Check the latest travel advice.
At a glance
- Country
- Yemen
- Region
- Aden Governorate
- Population
- 1 million
- Best time to go
- November to March
- Main airport
- Aden International (ADE)
- Coordinates
- 12.79°N, 45.02°E
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Overview
Aden grew around one of the finest natural harbours in Arabia, partly built inside the crater of an extinct volcano. For centuries it was a key stop on the trade routes between the Red Sea and India, and later a busy British-run port.
Its old districts mix Arab, Indian and colonial architecture, ringed by dark volcanic peaks and beaches. Travel to Yemen is not possible at present; this guide is for a future, safer time.
Things to see
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Photo: العمري, Public domain Cisterns of Tawila
A chain of ancient stone water tanks set into a gorge above the Crater district.
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Photo: Christina Hecker @ Deutsch-Jemenitische Gesellschaft, CC BY-SA 4.0 Crater
The old town inside the volcano, with markets, mosques and the old Aden minaret.
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Photo: العمري, Public domain Sira Fortress
A fort on a rocky island joined to the shore, guarding the old harbour.
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Photo: Brian Harrington Spier from Shanghai, China, CC BY-SA 2.0 Tawahi
The old Steamer Point district, with colonial buildings and a clock tower looking over the port.
Things to do
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Photo: James Marshall McKay, CC BY-SA 3.0 Walk Crater's streets
Explore the old souqs and lanes of the city's historic heart with a local guide.
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Photo: الدياني, CC BY 3.0 Gold Mohur beach
A sandy bay beneath the hills on the western side of the peninsula.
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Seafood
Fresh fish baked in clay ovens and served with flatbread is a local speciality.
Where to stay
Khormaksar
A central district on the isthmus with larger hotels and access to the airport.
Hotels in KhormaksarCrater
For being among the old town's markets and historic sights.
Hotels in Crater
Getting around
Taxis are the usual way to get around. When visiting becomes possible, travel with trusted local arrangements.
Aden International is in Khormaksar, a short drive from the main districts.
When to go
The cooler months from November to March are the most comfortable. Summer is extremely hot and humid.
Plan your trip to Aden
Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.